Electrolux Model L

[favoritevac]

I have a 1967 Electrolux model L. It had a grinding, growling sound so we took it to a vac.shop here and the guy said it needed a bearing in the motor. We also told him that it doesn't have the suction it once had. He put this vacuum guage of some sort on the suction end and turned it on and said the suction read fairly good. It still doesn't have the suction it used to. You could put the hose nozzel on your shirt and it would stay there. Now,it slowly falls off your shirt and hits the floor. What can be done to correct this? Even if I could figure out how to get to the motor,I don't know what to do once I get there. We have a new hose, so that's not the problem, and nothing is clogged up either. If anyone has any suggestions, I would appreciate it. This is our (especially my wife's) favorite vac. of all time. It's been in the family since 1967. Thanks.

 

[eurekastar]

You may just need a new hose, especially if you're still using the original. They eventually begin to leak and that will reduce suction at the hose end.

 

[floor-a-matic]

Or the gasket (rubber cone that prevents dirt from spilling out of bag) may be worn out or brittle.

 

[venson]

If it were me . . .

Considering the vacuum has had forty-five years of use, I'd ask for an estimate regarding the replacement of the entire motor with the shop's warranty of service. And, by all means change the hose or have it repaired.

One supplier, Hesco Inc. 1-800-822-7467), still has motors to fit the Model L (EL 545)in stock. I don't know what the sale price difference would be for the general public as opposed to a licensed repair shop.

Never judge a vacuum by it's hose. Put your Model L tank-type on a smooth surface without the hose attached, turn it on and put your palm against the suction port. Ideally the cleaner will follow your hand as you attempt to pull it away. Also make note as to whether you feel exhaust air at the blower end of the cleaner. If you don't you're golden -- all is sealed as it should be.

Please note: I have no affiliation with Hesco, Inc.

 

[electrolux-dude]

Shoot me an e-mail

Hello, This is Nathan, Electrolux-Dude. Feel free to send me an e-mail, at: [email protected]. I have rebuilt the motors in many Electrolux vacuums, and can walk you through on how to service and clean the motor of your vacuum.
Let me know if I can help!
Nathan
Electrolux-Dude

 

[danemodsandy]

Well Worth the Trouble!

As a fellow Model L owner, I can say you'll be well rewarded if you spend the money to repair what you have. The motor can be rebuilt, as Nathan suggests, or replaced. The hose is also easily taken care of; search "Electrolux pigtail hose" on eBay.

By the way, I have dealt with Nathan and have always been pleased with his merchandise, prices and service.

If you buy a new vacuum cleaner, you will probably get five years tops out of it. If you put the Model L back in shape, it'll be good for another forty-five years. New vacuums use a single-stage motor that develops great suction, but which revs itself to death pretty quickly. The motor in a Model L hardly breaks a sweat.